Context:
Moldova is dependent on imports of electricity, gas and oil from abroad. The country is therefore particularly hard hit by the energy crisis resulting from Russia’s war against Ukraine. Around 60 per cent of the population is suffering from energy-related poverty on account of the increased cost of electricity and heating.
Making the country’s buildings more efficient is a particular challenge in Moldova. Since many houses do not have adequate thermal insulation, buildings are responsible for more than half of all energy consumption. But as a candidate country for accession to the European Union (EU), Moldova is obliged to implement the EU Buildings Directive and therefore carry out extensive renovation to both public and private buildings.
Objective:
Moldova has better structures and funding programmes to make its buildings more energy efficient.
Approach:
The project supports the Moldovan Ministry of Energy and the National Center for Sustainable Energy. A particular focus is on implementing the Fund for Energy Efficiency in the Residential Sector (FEERM) and the Appliance Voucher Programme for energy-saving household appliances. The project provides the authorities with HR support in the form of specialists and experts.
In addition, a nationwide Learning Energy Efficiency Network (LEEN) supports local authorities in planning and implementing bankable building projects.
The project is also developing new procedures for assessing and renovating buildings for energy efficiency. These are being trialled using pilot projects financed by the Norwegian Government, Denmark and the EU.
Communication campaigns and events provide house and apartment owners with information about cost-efficient construction and renovation. Local project experts also support homeowners with technical, legal and financial processes.
In addition, the project promotes international exchange and cooperation through study trips, events involving experts and an administrative partnership with German energy authorities.